Everglide Lightning Silver V3 vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both options fall under the linear switch category. The Lightning Silver V3 stands out for its clacky and high-pitched sound signature, providing a seamless typing experience with a unique light diffuser for enhanced RGB illumination. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile that is described as buttery and invigorating. While the Lightning Silver V3 may appeal to those looking for a more vibrant and silky typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream caters to individuals seeking a deeper and more textured typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the NovelKeys Cream is equipped with a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and aesthetics, with the polycarbonate housing being clear and suitable for RGB lighting, while the POM housing offers a unique sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing comparison, the Lightning Silver V3 also incorporates a polycarbonate material, which contributes to a crisp and resonant sound profile upon bottoming out a key. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream utilizes a POM bottom housing that results in a more subdued and deep sound when pressing down on a key. While the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing can impact the bottom-out sound and feel, showcasing how the choice of material can affect overall typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The polycarbonate housing of the Lightning Silver V3 emphasizes a sharp and higher-pitched sound, while the POM housing of the NovelKeys Cream delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and aesthetics, showcasing how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharp and resonant sound or a deeper and more pleasing sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch differ slightly in terms of weight. The Lightning Silver V3 has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Lightning Silver V3 at 60 grams is lighter than the NovelKeys Cream's 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range for actuation force, but the NovelKeys Cream leans towards the medium-heavy side for bottom out force. The difference in force between the two switches may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Lightning Silver V3 for those who prefer less resistance, while the NovelKeys Cream offers a more substantial, satisfying push feel for those who enjoy a heavier keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lightning Silver V3 provides a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, ideal for gamers looking for fast and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream offers a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their preferences for responsiveness and depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 is known for its clacky and high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience with a bright and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a deeper and resonant sound, creating a more immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference for sound profiles.
When it comes to feel, the Lightning Silver V3 is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream is known for its buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth, fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. The Cream switches also offer a textured option for those who prefer a bit of friction in their typing experience. The feel of these switches varies, making it important for users to determine which type of feel they prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Overall, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer different sound and feel qualities to cater to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Depending on whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound with a silky typing feel or a deep and resonant sound with a buttery and invigorating typing experience, you can choose the switch that best suits your personal preferences. Whether you opt for the Lightning Silver V3 or the NovelKeys Cream, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics unique to each switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, high-pitched sound profile with a silky typing experience, the Lightning Silver V3 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper, low-pitched, resonant sound with a buttery, textured, or invigorating typing feel, the NovelKeys Cream could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall keyboard experience you are looking to achieve.
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